Best Bars In Covent Garden

• Location: St. Martin's Courtyard, 7-9 Slingsby Place, WC2E 9AB
• Price: ££-£££
• Best for: Nikkei cuisine and creative cocktails, date night, and live music 
• What to order: La Culebra (£14)
• Why I recommend: for those who demand excellence without the roar of the West End crowds, Oriole stands as the definitive subterranean sanctuary in The Yards. I think that Oriole balances its plush, elegant aesthetic with an incredibly creative cocktail menu, should you decide to stop for a drink at the Bamboo Bar or explore its globe-trotting menu in the restaurant below 

Situated in St. Martin's Courtyard, Oriole is a speakeasy-style bar which serves fantastic cocktails and an array of tasty Nikkei-inspired small plates. Not only is there live piano music every single night, but you can also tuck into the likes of beef tartare and ceviche from its restaurant menu.

Pair these bites with delicious concoctions like the Lillet rose and Campari-based Chipilo or an elderflower-flavoured Jungle Bird from the Bamboo Bar, served with eye-catching adornments. Downstairs, you'll find a gorgeous, sleek space filled with emerald green leather furnishings, while upstairs offers more natural light, cherry-red and timber banquettes, and the chance to watch the world go by as you sip your pour. 

• Location: 2 Burleigh Street, WC2E 7PX
• Price: ££-£££
• Best for: live music, American diner vibes, a casual date night
• What to order: a classic martini (£15) 
• Why I recommend: I would consider Joe's Bar famously popular with theatre crowds and West End performers. While the restaurant is known for its classic American comfort food, the bar is equally impressive, serving expertly made classics like martinis and Manhattans. I always suggest it for pre- or post-theatre cocktails, as it's timeless, buzzy and full of character

Slip behind the curtain to discover Joe's Bar, the hidden gem tucked inside the iconic Joe Allen. Inspired by downtown New York's neighbourhood drinking dens, this moody, piano-accompanied hideaway is the perfect pre- or post-theatre haunt. The decor is delightful, with dark walnut counters and a mirrored back bar making the venue feel large while still cosy. 

Expect expertly mixed martinis, classic cocktails, and a warm, buzzy atmosphere that runs late into the night. Whether you're popping in for a drink or lingering after dinner, Joe's Bar captures the spirit of the city that never sleeps, right here in Covent Garden.

• Location: 42 Drury Lane, WC2B 5AJ
• Price: ££
• Best for: wine and small plates with friends, date night
• What to order: 2024 The Settler Sauvignon Blanc, New Zealand (£10.40 for 125ml)
• Why I recommend: I like that the wine selection balances classic French regions like Bordeaux and Burgundy with more adventurous bottles from the New World, meaning you can move from familiar favourites to something new without feeling overwhelmed. There are also dozens of wines available by the glass, starting from around £6.50, which makes it one of the more accessible places in Covent Garden to explore different styles of wine without committing to a full bottle

Why head to any old boring bar when you can pop into Cecilia's Wine House? This Drury Lane venue has a boatload of tasty drinks up for grabs from all over the world that can be enjoyed with loved ones, making it one of the best wine bars in Covent Garden by far.

Their wines by the glass start from just £6.50, and there are great value bottles if you want to take some home. To accompany your sips of rioja ore a lovely Malbec, they serve Italian cheese and small plates such as 'nduja, saffron and mozzarella stuffed arancini, and truffle oil and parmesan fries.

• Location: 45 St Martin's Lane, WC2N 4HX
• Price: £££
• Best for: secret sips, a stunning hotel bar, date night, pre-theatre drinks 
• What to order: Oaxaca (£18.50)
• Why I recommend: I adore how secret this speakeasy feels, as you wouldn't have guessed to have found it at the back of the hotel, besides the reception desk. Once inside, the bar's concept revolves around global travel. The cocktail menu takes inspiration from historic trade routes and international destinations, with drinks designed to represent cities from around the world, and I think this gives the menu a sense of storytelling that sets it apart from more conventional cocktail bars nearby

A cool, secret bar in Covent Garden, Blind Spot at St Martin's Lane, is perfect for those wanting discreet and delicious drinks. From strong serves to the classics, this dimly-lit location promises a luxe cocktail experience just shy of the main strip. Favourites include the Jeju, which takes your tastebuds to Korea for a drink that includes Hwayo Soju, Mandarin Liquor, and SoGood sake, as well as Oaxaca, with Vida Mezcal de Maguey and Herradura Blanco.

You'll find this place behind the façade of a boutique tea counter, with a secret golden hand-shaped handle to let you in. Visiting on a Saturday night? There'll be live DJs playing from 9pm onwards.

• Location: 3-5 Burleigh Street, WC2E 7PX
• Price: ££
• Best for: cocktails with entertainment (beer, pool and karaoke), group nights out, happy hours
• What to order: Sinners Sunrise (£10.50)
• Why I recommend: I enjoy that Sinners Social Club brings a playful party vibe to Covent Garden. Inside feels rebellious and quirky, and it's a great place for groups to book and enjoy some rounds of darts over a couple of Camden Hells. The happy hour is fabulous too - you can enjoy £5 pints, 2-4-1 cocktails, and £6.50 double spirits and mixers until 8pm every day 

Nestled just off the bustling streets of Covent Garden, Sinners Social Club has quickly carved out a name as one of the best bars in the area - a gritty, unapologetic dive bar that pairs raw charm with undeniable fun. Think neon red lighting, monochrome flooring, and glossy tile-edged bars.

Whether you're here to grab a perfectly poured pint or dive into their expertly crafted cocktails, the drinks menu never disappoints. It features playful concoctions like a blood orange sling, or 'voodoo juice', made up of spiced rum, Malibu and Malibu strawberry. And if you want to add a bit of competitive fun to your night, challenge your friends to a game of pool or darts - where bragging rights are as hotly contested as the cocktails.

• Location: 35 Earlham Street, WC2H 9LD
• Price: ££-£££
• Best for: a quirky drinking experience, hen parties, group nights out 
• What to order: Banana Duchess (£13.20)
• Why I recommend: I love how playful this venue is and how the cocktail menu leans into the legend of the Baron Von Took (apparently, his final wish was to have a drink in one of Covent Garden's various brewhouses). It's also affordable, and offers a great post-theatre menu where you can enjoy signature cocktails for £8 each with your theatre ticket, all night long

The Escapologist is an intriguing hangout that pays homage to the erratic behaviour and mythical reputation of the infamous Baron. It describes itself as part modern-day Victorian men's club and part Masonic lodge, so you know you're in for a unique night out. Especially when it comes to decor, with mirrored ceilings, bold prints and velvet drapes.

This basement bar is based at the HQ of the secret society that ran Victorian London and promises great times, sharing cocktails and cheese boards. Wondering what to order? We recommend the gin and elderflower London Lady, or the tempting Banana Duchess.

• Location: 8-10 Neal's Yard, WC2H 9DP
• Price: ££-£££
• Best for: fine wine and casual dining, date night, small producers and hard-to-find bottles 
• What to order: Raisin A Plumes, Loire, France, 2023 - orange (£14 per glass)
• Why I recommend: tucked away in Neal's Yard, La Compagnie is one of Covent Garden's best-kept secrets for wine lovers. Part of the renowned Experimental Group, the bar is known for its carefully curated selection of over 400 wines from small producers around the world, alongside a knowledgeable team who can guide you through the list

If a glass of wine is central to a good night out in the city, you need to pay a visit to Covent Garden's La Compagnie. With an attention-grabbing menu and interiors to match, it's packed with vinos you know and plenty you don't, taking in small producers and under-the-radar regions alongside the classics.

Regular themed menus and events shine the spotlight on tastes you may have yet to discover, from Austria's mountain winemakers to the traditional tout chaud.

• Location: 35 The Piazza, WC2E 8BE
• Price: £££
• Best for: live music, date night, and dancing 
• What to order: Californication (£14) 
• Why I recommend: if I want a bar in Covent Garden that feels like a proper night out rather than just a couple of drinks, Stereo is one of the places I suggest first. Tucked away underground, it feels like stepping into a late-night music club you might stumble across in New York, with a slick London polish and a hint of Parisian style

For secret bars in Covent Garden? Check out Stereo, the slick destination where you'll find live music every evening and a DJ 'til late afterwards. This gorgeous dining spot, decked out with soft orb lighting, mirrored ceilings, and candle-lit tables, is all about amazing entertainment and fabulous cocktails. 

Some of the top drinks, named after classic songs, include Purple Rain, made using Hayman's London dry gin, coconut and ube, and the Stereo Michelada, featuring a pickle house tomato mix, lime, and Hell's Lager. That one's not for the faint-hearted. 

• Location: 2nd Floor, 9 Russell Street, WC2B 5HZ
• Price: ££-£££
• Best for: date night, private hire for parties, and twists on classic cocktails that are approachable 
• What to order: The Pornstar (£14) 
• Why I recommend: I love the attention to detail at Dovetail Bar - this sleek Covent Garden hideaway is all about beautifully balanced cocktails and a seriously stylish setting. It's great how the menu leans creative without being intimidating, with seasonal ingredients and inventive flavour pairings that make every drink feel special 

Escape from the bustling West End streets with a trip to Dovetail Bar, hidden away above a restaurant. This intimate venue boasts refined interiors - think blue velvet bar stools, exposed wooden walls and quirky artwork, as well as relaxing music in the background.

As for the drinks? You can expect exciting twists on the classics, like the old fashioned with shortbread and spiced maple, or an appletini with notes of toffee and honey. The margarita is a particular favourite, as it features wild strawberry and prosecco.

• Location: 14 Garrick Street, WC2E 9BJ
• Price: ££
• Best for: Latin American flavours
• What to order: pisco sour (£13)
• Why I recommend: El Bar at Lima Cantina brings the flavours of Peru to Covent Garden, and I like how the drinks list leans heavily on pisco and Latin American ingredients, creating bright, citrus-led cocktails that pair perfectly with the restaurant's menu. It's a great shout when you want cocktails with a bit of global flair

For a drinking den with a difference, head to Lima Cantina, where Pisco Sours flow and the spirit of Peru comes alive. This Covent Garden favourite blends laid-back South American charm with punchy cocktails (try the pisco old fashioned for a twist on a classic) and street food flair.

Whether you're grabbing a post-work drink, settling in for a full meal, or just grazing on sharing plates inspired by Lima's bustling markets, you'll find plenty of reasons to stay for just one more, especially if you visit for happy hour and snag a pisco sour for £5.

• Location: 42 William IV Street, WC2N 4DD
• Price: ££
• Best for: two-for-one cocktails, karaoke, weekly brunches, and entertainment
• What to order: Tommy's margarita (£11.20)
• Why I recommend: if I'm meeting friends in Covent Garden and want somewhere fun, lively and reliably good for cocktails, Tequila Mockingbird is one of the spots I often suggest. Margaritas are a particular highlight here, with everything from a classic Tommy's margarita, balanced with tequila, agave and fresh lime, to more creative twists like the chilli-infused Don't Be A Prick, which blends spice, citrus and apple

Looking for a party spot that won't break the bank? Then be sure to check out Tequila Mockingbird for some top-notch drinks. Whether you're heading in for their epic happy hours or some Instagram-worthy pics in their cool basement space, you definitely won't regret it.

And if you're after 2 for 1 cocktails in Covent Garden? They offer that too. Look forward to sipping the likes of Raspberry Kiss, made with Cut Spiced Rum and Malibu with orange, or a smooth and fruity Pink Pony Club, featuring gin, passionfruit and vanilla.

• Location: 142 Shaftesbury Avenue, WC2H 8HJ
• Price: ££
• Best for: craft beer lovers, affordable drinks, catch-ups with friends 
• What to order: Simcoe IPA
• Why I recommend: the tap list typically includes everything from hazy IPAs to rich stouts and seasonal specials, meaning there's always something new to try. Keep an eye out for limited-edition guest taps - this location often gets small-batch releases you won't find elsewhere

When it comes to bars in the West End, BrewDog has it all. From 20 taps serving the best craft beer on draught, as well as a function room which provides a space for private parties and exclusive events, this is a great multi-purpose space.

It's not just the drinks that these guys have got going for them. Their mouthwatering menu features The Pit and Oklahoma Stack burgers, beer-battered cauliflower wings and loaded street corn topped with parmesan and chilli. What's more, you can get bottomless wings on Wednesdays.

• Location: 63-66 St Martin's Lane, WC2N 4JS
• Price: ££-£££
• Best for: inventive and theatrical cocktails, date night, and bottomless brunches 
• What to order: The Colour Changing One
• Why I recommend: if you enjoy cocktails that are as theatrical as the West End shows nearby, The Alchemist on St Martin's Lane delivers exactly that. I feel like the theatrical drinks suit the West End setting, and it's always brilliant fun visiting as a group, ordering different drinks, and seeing what each of you gets. The bubbles and smoke are heaps of fun, and the drinks are very tasty too 

One of the slickest cocktail bars in Covent Garden, this St Martin's Lane bar and restaurant offers some of the most innovative mixology in the area. Head in for the chance to sample some of their signature sips, whether it be the famous Colour Changing One, made with Ketel One vodka and citrus, or the gin-based Bong Voyage, which is served in, yep, you guessed it, a bong. 

Sit among gold light fixtures and an illuminated bar - it's a very swanky environment for a drink or two. If you get hungry, there are scrumptious plates like katsu curry, tempura fish and chips, or halloumi flatbread to get stuck into - and they also offer a killer bottomless brunch.

• Location: 41 Great Queen Street, WC2B 5AA
• Price: ££
• Best for: pizza and cocktails, an afternoon spritz with friends, private hire, birthday parties
• What to order: Strawberry & Basil Smash (£13) 
• Why I recommend: LOCKES is a very versatile venue that is a favourite among visitors - it's ready to host you at any time of day, whether you're looking for a catch-up over a couple of cocktails at lunch or more of a party with food in the evening. It's only a short walk from the station and only five minutes from the Royal Opera House, should you be looking for a refreshment before a show

Located on Great Queen Street, LOCKES is a grand shout when it comes to drinking destinations. Sip on everything from brambles and whiskey sours to margaritas and lime daiquiris. They also have a great selection of signature cocktails, including a zesty Palomita, made with Hacien Blanco tequila and grapefruit soda, and a thirst-quenching Strawberry & Basil Smash with a hint of basil.

Hungry? These folks have lip-smacking Neapolitan sourdough pizzas courtesy of chef Alessandro Parisi, alongside sharing boards and small plates. And if you're looking for a bar for a summer bash? You should seriously consider LOCKES - it has a lovely terrace with space for up to 45 of your mates. 

• Location: 24-26, Russell Street, WC2B 5HF
• Price: ££
• Best for: happy hours and cocktail masterclasses
• What to order: espresso martini (£11)
• Why I recommend: Be At One is incredibly energetic and does classic drinks well for an affordable price in such a popular area. Their signature drinks are worth exploring too, as the Colada old fashioned is very fun and finished with a delightful Bournville chocolate garnish

Be At One excels at hosting pretty much any form of party. Whether you're planning an intimate first date, a raucous happy hour session or late-night dancing antics, this is one of the cheap bars in Covent Garden that has you covered. You'll find a fabulous list of classic drinks here, starting from £11.70 each and including Long Island iced teas, margaritas, Aperol spritzes, and more. 

Find your way round to this basement bar if your idea of a good night involves a comprehensive list of cocktails and those guilty pleasure party tunes. Speaking of which, if you're planning a party, why not check out their cocktail masterclasses and learn how to make a Melontini? Not in the area? Check out their Lyceum venue instead.

• Location: 50, Earlham Street, WC2H 9LJ
• Price: ££
• Best for: activities with drinks, date night, watching sports, and parties 
• What to order: Honey Honey (£13) 
• Why I recommend: Bat & Ball is proof that great cocktails and games go hand in hand. I think it's great for when you want cocktails alongside ping pong, beer pong and shuffleboard in a lively, social setting. The drinks menu mixes up crowd-pleasing classics and playful house signatures, making it ideal for groups of friends 

For a great time out in Covent Garden, look no further than Bat & Ball Covent Garden (with a spot in Stratford, too). With a range of signature cocktails, craft beers, and an extensive drinks list, this place has everything you need to unwind and have fun. Games-wise, you can look forward to karaoke, pool, darts, shuffleboard, and beer pong (or prosecco pong, if you fancy something a little more bubbly). 

Whether you're sipping a classic cocktail (they served paloms, old fashioneds and espresso martinis for £12 each) or trying something new, the bar staff are always ready to mix up something special. Pair it with delicious bites like wood-fired pizzas or juicy burgers, and you're set for a fantastic night in this energetic spot. 

• Location: River Terrace, Somerset House, Strand, WC2R 1LA
• Price: ££
• Best for: riverside drinks, DJ sets, and date night
• What to order: Setlist spicy margarita (£12.50)
• Why I recommend: I love visiting Setlist - I think it's such an affordable and brilliant bar to enjoy a couple of margaritas and share plates among friends, and I adore its commitment to representing some of the finest female chefs around. The cocktails are great too; it's all about palomas, orange negronis, and Irish fashions

Make your way to Somerset House to discover Setlist, a stunning bar, restaurant and event space on the terrace. You can enjoy stunning views of the Thames while you're here, and their regular lineup of live music, DJ sets and art installations.

Feeling peckish? There's a talented team of female chefs in the kitchen: Chef Opy, who knows all about West African food, Sophie Wyburd, who serves comfort food, and Masafina, who's inspired by the flavours of Mexico. This means you can look forward to international dishes such as fried plantain, Baja fish tacos and fennel sausage pizza.

• Location: 19 Henrietta Street, WC2E 8QH
• Price: ££
• Best for: bottomless brunch, drinks deals, hen parties 
• What to order: Bakewell Sour (£12.95)
• Why I recommend: I think that, for pre-theatre drinks or big parties, you can't miss with All Bar One. They have a super fun cocktail menu that's got something for everyone, and its location near the likes of the Lyceum Theatre makes it a fab shout for a quick tipple or two before enjoying some West End entertainment

Nestled on Henrietta Street, All Bar One is simply perfect for pre-theatre or post-dinner drinks in the heart of the city. There's a fantastic selection of cocktails, beers and wines up for grabs; it's a buzzy, affordable venue with a menu featuring signature drinks, bartender twists, and classics. For something a little spicy, order a mango picante, or get a little floral and refreshing with a delightful elderflower and cucumber fizz, featuring Hendrick's gin and prosecco. 

You can also dive into delicious small plates, including karaage sticky chicken, halloumi fries, and Baja fish tacos (you can choose five plates to share for a group of you for £38). Topping it all off? They offer bottomless brunches for only £40.

• Location: Zero Aldwych (outside the Lyceum), Wellington Street, WC2E 7DN
• Price: ££
• Best for: drag shows, dancing, live music, and late-night drinks
• What to order: Rare Find
• Why I recommend: if you're after a cocktail bar with serious personality, CellarDoor is always one I recommend. Hidden inside a former Victorian public toilet beneath the streets of Covent Garden, this tiny cabaret bar pairs creative cocktails with nightly live entertainment. I find it regularly appears in lists of the area's best bars, thanks to its theatrical vibe and memorable drinks

Cellar Door is one of the best bars in Covent Garden - an intimate, hidden gem offering an unforgettable mix of premium cocktails, live entertainment, and an electric atmosphere. It nods to 30s Berlin meets New York speakeasy and is open every night until 1am, making it a great shout for meeting up past your bedtime. 

Nestled beneath the pavement outside the Lyceum Theatre, this stylish bar provides everything from drag queens and burlesque shows to magicians (as soon as the clock strikes 9pm), all in a space with just 60 seats, ensuring a personalised experience for everyone. If you head down before 8pm, you'll be treated to 2-4-1 on selected cocktails, bubbles and beers thanks to its 'retro hour'. Look forward to the likes of the citrussy Lemon Sorbet, or the gin-based Call Me Duchess, with honey syrup and Cointreau. 

• Location: Gillian Lynne Theatre, Parker Street, WC2B 5PW
• Price: ££
• Best for: theatrical entertainment, bottomless brunches, happy hours, drinks and a show
• What to order: mojito (£12) 
• Why I recommend: inspired by American duelling piano bars, this space is dedicated to bringing you live music, singing waiters and musical theatre anthems, so it's definitely one for those who like a side of pazzaz with their order. I like how upbeat it is all of the time, and how you get to pick some of the songs that get played, making you part of the experience 

After bars in Covent Garden with music? Get on down to The Piano Works West End, an entertainment-led restaurant and bar, for one hell of a night out. Live vocalists, singing waitresses and a full six-piece band are at hand to take your song requests, plus there's plenty of tasty food and drinks to enjoy too.

Their menu features everything classic espresso martinis (where you can upgrade to Grey Goose vodka) to Long Island iced teas, as well as a good selection of bottled beer (Pravha and Jubel Peach to name a few). They also have a daily happy hour from 5pm to 7pm featuring £4 Prahva pints and £8 selected cocktails, so you may just bag a bargain here as well.

• Location: 20 Bedford Street, WC2E 9HP
• Price: ££-££
• Best for: hen parties, work dos, group nights out, and bottomless brunches
• What to order: Sticky Toffee Old Fashioned 
• Why I recommend: I think that what really sets Blame Gloria apart from other bars in the area is its event-driven nightlife. It's adored for its themed bottomless brunches, drag performances, karaoke nights and resident DJs spinning everything from disco to pop classics. There's plenty of photo opportunities too, in a venue that's adorned with mirrored walls, floral banquettes, and glitter ball ceilings 

Blame Gloria is all about masterful mixology when it comes to their cocktails. Set in a basement of exposed brick archways, this Covent Garden resident is an underground playground of classic party tunes, cheap, cheerful drinks deals and all-around fun. 

You can always count on them for a lively atmosphere, and not just in the evening either. Their bottomless brunches are legendary, themed around ABBA, disco and more. The list of signature cocktails reads as indulgent desserts; you can look forward to the Eton Mess, made with Grey Goose vodka and cranberry juice, and the Boogie Colada with coconut two ways (yoghurt and Myst coconut water).

• Location: 17 Mercer Street, WC2H 9QJ
• Price: ££-£££
• Best for: subterranean sips, date night, brilliant mixology 
• What to order: Jalapeño + Shiso (£15)
• Why we recommend: Cato is one of those slightly under-the-radar spots we love recommending to cocktail enthusiasts. The bar focuses on quality ingredients, premium spirits and thoughtful mixology, with bartenders who take real pride in their craft. I think it's a cool quirk how the menu is inspired by synesthesia, and the drinks express how colour can shape and enhance flavour 

Covent Garden's Cato (hospitality group Bart & Taylor, who are also behind Mr Fox and Fern in Croydon) explores global flavours through a distinctly British lens. In this beautiful basement bar, lined with plush seating and candle-lit tables, the menu is built around seven colours and 14 standout cocktails.

Named after the world's first celebrated bartender, Cato Alexander, this place takes its mixology mighty seriously, with top bartender Angelos Bafas in charge of drinks. Expect precision-crafted cocktails made with care and flair, from the Jalapeño + Shiso to the Red Dulse + Cherry.

• Location: 39 Bow Street, WC2E 7AU
• Price: ££-£££
• Best for: a buzzing pub vibe, drinks with a view, classic cocktails and pints, and post-work catch-ups
• What to order: hot honey picante (£16)
• Why I recommend: for a cocktail with a view, the Marquess of Anglesey is hard to beat. Overlooking the Covent Garden piazza, this historic pub mixes traditional charm with a strong drinks list, including well-made cocktails and an impressive selection of spirits. I especially suggest heading upstairs for one of the best vantage points in the area - it's a brilliant spot for a relaxed drink while watching the buzz of the market below

Looking for a traditional boozer? Then make your way to Marquess of Anglesey, a good old pub with plenty of character. The three-storey space offers views of the local area from its top floor, and a retractable roof that makes for a gorgeous outdoor terrace in the summer months.

Enjoy their fabulous range of seasonal British food or opt for a Sunday roast - you definitely won't be disappointed. As for drinks, think cracking cocktails, like a Redbreast old fashioned, passionfruit martini, or a twisted orange bellini, and refreshing pints.

• Location: Earlham Street, WC2H 9LX
• Price: ££
• Best for: drinking in large groups, street food with a pint, affordable cocktails
• What to order: a tropical drink from Bar Nana
• Why I recommend: Seven Dials Market might be known for its incredible lineup of street food traders, but its cocktail offering deserves attention too. With multiple bars serving everything from spritzes to classic cocktails, it's perfect for groups who want to mix great drinks with some of London's best casual dining

Brought to you by the team behind KERB, Seven Dials Market is a bustling food hall and bar that's home to so many different independent traders and shops. It's split into four distinct areas, with a stage offering live entertainment to boot.

Sip refreshing pints from Warehouse Bar (they've got craft beer from Gispy Hill Brewing Co.) or cocktails while soaking up the atmosphere, and check out the food on offer too. From crispy fried chicken to tasty pizza slices and even Chinese noodles from HOKO, there are all sorts to choose from.

• Location: The Royal Ballet and Opera, Bow Street, WC2E 9DD
• Price: £££
• Best for: piazza views, aperitivo hour, elegant pre-theatre drinks
• What to order: Caprese Sbagliato (£16)
• Why we recommend: I've had a lovely time unwinding here on warm evenings, watching the performers and crowds below while enjoying a drink in the leafy rooftop space. The combination of greenery and emerald-tiled bar gives it a polished yet relaxed feel

On the hunt for bars in Covent Garden with a view? Located inside the Royal Ballet and Opera House and just upstairs from Angela Hartnett's restaurant, Bar Cicoria brings a slice of Turin's aperitivo culture to the West End. Vermouth plays a starring role, from Cocchi to Carpano, alongside Italian staples like Campari and Aperol, while the cocktail list riffs cleverly on classics with a few creative twists.

Standouts include the silky Negroni Piano, which arrives milk-clarified for a smoother finish, and the playful Caprese Sbagliato, blending basil-infused vodka with cherry tomato, strawberry cordial and a drizzle of olive oil. The space is fairly modest and walk-ins only, but that's part of the charm, and if you're lucky enough to snag a seat overlooking the piazza (even in peak summer, it can happen), it's one of the most memorable cocktail spots in the area.

• Location: 34-35 Southampton Street, WC2E 7HG
• Price: £££
• Best for: date night, for fans of serious mixology 
• What to order: Coffee (£15) 
• Why I recommend: I love how drinks are developed in a dedicated lab where ingredients are distilled, clarified and carbonated to create unexpected flavours and textures. This results in inventive takes on classic cocktails, like clarified piña coladas or reimagined pornstar martinis with herbaceous twists

Head underneath Covent Garden and you'll find a real place of temptation and indulgence. Eve Bar is an award-winning (it has 1 Pin in the Pinnacle Guide) basement den that serves up hedonistic cocktails that aim to evoke nostalgia in a luxurious setting – and they're known to host amazing live music too.

Eve by Adam Handling is part of Frog restaurant, and they use the parts of ingredients that can't be used on the main Frog menu in drinks and snacks here - taking a sustainable approach to food and drink. What's incredibly handy is that they also use a circle system from one to four to show how strong their drinks are on the menu. Try the Raspberry, described as a negroni meets martini, and featuring Luxardo bitter Bianco, and cocoa-washed butter, or the Coffee, which is basically a dessert in a glass. 

• Location: 28 Bow Street, WC2E 7AW
• Price: £££
• Best for: tequila and mezcal lovers, late-night drinks, stylish hotel bars, date night
• What to order: Sergeant Pepper Margarita (£19)
• Why we recommend: I love this bar for its bold Latin American flavour and seriously impressive agave selection. Set inside the NoMad London, housed in the Grade II-listed former Bow Street Magistrates' Court, part of the globally recognised NoMad hospitality group and located within a hotel named among the World's 50 Best, the bar mixes heritage architecture with a buzzing modern drinks scene

The 1 Pin-awarded Side Hustle used to be the building's police station, which makes sipping margaritas beneath its lofty ceilings feel all the more fun. But it's the cocktail programme that really stands out. With over 50 varieties of tequila, mezcal and other agave spirits behind the bar, it's become something of a destination for fans of Mexican spirits, and the bartending team use them to brilliant effect across a menu that ranges from punchy margarita riffs to inventive Latin classics.

I'm particularly into the rotating margarita selection, from the spicy Sergeant Pepper to fruitier twists, but you'll also find standout drinks like the Tomato & Basil Negroni or a smoky Oaxacan Old Fashioned. 

• Location: The Savoy, Strand, WC2R 0EZ
• Price: ££££
• Best for: cocktail history, old-school glamour, bucket-list drinks, date night
• What to order: A Touch Of Pink (£23)
• Why we recommend: few places can claim to have shaped cocktail culture quite like the American Bar at The Savoy. Open since 1893, it's the longest-running cocktail bar in the capital and regularly crowned one of the best bars in the world - and venturing inside still feels like entering a piece of liquid history. I love how the menu nods to the bar's legendary past, with drinks inspired by the fascinating stories, characters and cultural moments that have passed through its doors

From Winston Churchill to Ernest Hemingway, the guest list here is a who's who of the 20th century, and the bartenders have long been among the most respected in the industry.

Today, the team at American Bar continues that legacy with precision-made classics and thoughtful original creations. Signature serves like The Player, a tribute to when the Savoy theatre opened in 1881, shows the bar's knack for storytelling through flavour, blending No.3 London dry gin with La Yuzu liqueur and plum wine into something characterful and elegant.

• Location: 27-29 Endell Street, WC2H 9BA
• Price: ££
• Best for: watching sports, signature beers, happy hours, games, and a retro atmosphere 
• What to order: Carlsberg Special Brew (£6.95) (it's the only bar in the UK with it in the fridge), or a Turbo Largarita (£13.50)
• Why I recommend: you can live out your teenage fantasies at this spot, modelled on American sports bars and owned by Scott, founder of MEATliquor. There's karaoke everywhere, so it's a great spot to visit with friends when you're looking to let loose. There's also a Batman pinball machine

One of the most unique bars around, Bloodsports combines a classic American sports bar vibe with a venue inspired by horror films (it's got the carpet from The Shining). As such, they show both live sports and eerie movies across their 30 HD screens dotted around the room.

If you fancy a little competition of your own, they've also got a pool table, pinball machines, and arcade games, as well as karaoke. Feeling peckish? MEATliquor are in the kitchen, cooking up everything from double beef burgers to chilli cheese hotdogs and Buffalo wings.

• Location: 18 Adam Street, WC2N 6AA
• Price: ££-£££
• Best for: a drink in a place known for hosting artists, inventors, writers and more, and date night
• What to order: Mary Moser (£14.50)
• Why I recommend: set inside the historic RSA House, MUSE offers one of the most refined cocktail experiences in Covent Garden. The drinks programme focuses on seasonal ingredients and thoughtful flavour pairings, and I love the fact that it's dedicated to famous faces who have made history with their inventions and designs, reflecting the fabric of the building

When it comes to Covent Garden bars, MUSE stands out for its artistry, ambience, and authenticity. This tucked-away cocktail spot, just steps from the West End, features a drinks menu rooted in seasonal British ingredients and designed by industry icon Maris Dzelzainis. It has a secluded speakeasy feel to it, as you have to ring the doorbell for entry. 

A blend of innovation and elegance, MUSE is a welcome retreat from the crowds, ideal for pre-theatre cocktails, date nights, or relaxed evening drinks. Perch over a marble table top decorated with a chrome lamp and enjoy a menu dedicated to great inventors and thinkers: The Six Sips To Enlightenment. On it, you have Charles Dickens (rum punch, cinnamon, spice, and citrus), Mary Moser (Champagne cordial, vodka, sugar and lemon), and Peter Lend Simmonds (Blanco tequila, house spicy tequila, agave, creme de peach, and lime juice). 

• Location: Hotel AMANO Covent Garden, 34-43 Russell Street, WC2B 5HA
• Price: £££
• Best for: rooftop cocktails, skyline views, summer sundowners
• What to order: Corn on the Cob (£18)
• Why we recommend: Amano Rooftop Bar is easily one of the most stylish places in Covent Garden for a cocktail with epic vistas. Perched atop Hotel AMANO, the terrace looks out across some of London's most famous landmarks, including the London Eye and Big Ben, and I've always found it a brilliant spot for watching the city shift from golden hour into the evening 

Part of the Berlin-born AMANO hotel group, known for its design-led rooftops and lively bar scenes, AMANO Rooftop Bar strikes a great balance between polished hotel bar and laid-back sunset hangout. A retractable awning and sleek glassroom mean the terrace works year-round, whether you're dropping in for a casual drink or joining one of the cocktail tastings and events often hosted here.

The bar team lean into inventive techniques and unusual ingredients, creating signature cocktails you won't easily find elsewhere. Standouts include the Corn on the Cob, blending baby blue corn whisky and Nixta corn liqueur with a plant-based butter wash, or the fragrant Summer Thyme, with gin, raspberry and thyme foam. 

• Location: 55 Aldwych, WC2B 4BB
• Price: £££
• Best for: elegant aperitifs, post-theatre drinks, classic European cocktails
• What to order: Alpenglow (£15.75)
• Why we recommend: I think that The Delaunay Bar is one of Covent Garden's most reliably elegant places for a cocktail, and I always find it a lovely spot to pause after a wander around the West End or a night at the theatre. Sitting just beside the grand brasserie on the corner of Aldwych and Drury Lane, the bar hums with old-school European glamour - polished wood, softly lit tables and a crowd that ranges from theatre-goers to in-the-know cocktail drinkers

Part of the acclaimed Delaunay restaurant (from the team behind some of London's most iconic dining rooms), The Delaunay Bar leans into continental drinking culture with a menu that blends classic and creative house cocktails alongside an excellent wine and spirits list. The latest Alpine Tales cocktail collection draws inspiration from Austrian and Bavarian folklore, reimagining mountain legends through ingredients like pine, honey, apricot and spice.

Drinks such as the bittersweet Alpenglow, with gin, vermouth and pomegranate molasses, or the pear-and-ginger Frau Holle show the bar's knack for storytelling through flavour. With Austrian Stiegl on draught and thoughtful non-alcoholic twists for several cocktails, it's easy to see why it's a favourite among cocktail drinkers. 

• Location: 336-337, Strand, WC2R 1HA
• Price: ££-£££
• Best for: views of Covent Garden, date nights, and catch-ups with friends in the summer 
• What to order: I Just Called To Say I Love Yuzu (£14) 
• Why I recommend: the terrace is the main draw here: a slick, Ibiza-style lounge space with plush seating, heaters and blankets that make it workable year-round. As the sun sets, the bar transitions from relaxed sundowner territory into a lively late-night venue with DJs and a more party-focused atmosphere

Sitting pretty above one of the capital's best boutique hotels, ME London, Radio Rooftop is one of the most sought-after rooftop bars in Covent Garden. With delicious cocktails and stunning views across the city of the Shard and beyond, it's a perfect spot for a date night or a special occasion. 

They run a happy hour from 12pm to 7pm between Monday and Wednesday, promising deals on drinks like the vodka-based It's Giving Geisha, the Watermelon Pa-Low-Ma, or fine wines. There's also an Asian-inspired food menu to tuck into, featuring spicy tuna maki rolls, crispy duck bao and aubergine with ginger miso.

• Location: 35 The Market, WC2E 8RF
• Price: £££
• Best for: fusion cocktails, drinks with views over the market, and entertainment on weekends 
• What to order: Jalisco Iced Tea (£17)
• Why I recommend: I think that the cocktails here are just as exciting as the food. At SUSHISAMBA Covent Garden, the bar team takes inspiration from the restaurant's Japanese, Brazilian and Peruvian influences, creating bold drinks with ingredients like yuzu, pisco and tropical fruits. The dramatic interiors and rooftop terrace overlooking the piazza make it one of the most glamorous cocktail destinations in the neighbourhood

A restaurant and bar that has earned itself a prestigious name all over the world, SUSHISAMBA's Covent Garden outpost is located in The Piazza. The interiors are truly gorgeous, fronting extravagant displays of foliage and plush red velvet booths.

Its unique blend of Peruvian, Brazilian and Japanese cuisine features diverse flavours like yellowtail avocado and roasted corn miso taquitos or yuzu lobster. There are some killer cocktails up for grabs as well - we're talking Samba Sours, a modern take on a pisco sour with Japanese citus, and a very refreshing sake spritz, featuring Château Minuty Prestige Rosé and St. Germain elderflower liqueur, and spritzed with Mio sparkling sake and grapefruit oils.